Planning with a Special Needs Mom – Contingency Planning Part 4 of a 5-Part Series

September 29, 2020

By: Annette Miller

Traveling with someone living with special needs requires an additional layer of planning. In the previous installments of this series, I provided you with an overview , discussed how planning together can make a difference, and talked about the importance of choosing the right location . Since today’s topic, contingency planning, is a little more fluid - based on the personal needs of an individual, I thought it might help to give you an idea of this contingency plans I come up with for my son.

First, let’s meet Jeff. He is a fun-loving 12-year-old with cognitive challenges and delays that put him on par with most 7-year-olds. He has sensory challenges and struggles with emotional regulation. This means that he may decide at the last minute (or in the middle of a show/meal) that he is overwhelmed and is likely to flee. As a result, we don’t travel anywhere without knowing the location of the nearest Emergency Room and have a hospital bag packed and ready to go. (This bag contains fidgets, sleep masks, toiletries, and a list of current diagnoses, meds, and contact information for his care team at home, among others.)

I make sure that we start each day with a photo. That way, when he does flee, I have a photo to show to staff or security to help locate him. I don’t make a big deal about it and include my other kids as well, so he doesn’t feel singled out. I map out the locations of quiet places where he can take a break and point them out as we pass them. (That way, he knows which one is closest. It also gives him the opportunity to self-advocate and request a break.) Since he is not my only child, I also make sure that my older kids have a regular meeting time and can go have some fun without feeling like Jeff is a hinderance to their vacation enjoyment.

Your contingency needs may look completely different. You may need to pre-plan meals, so you know there is something appropriate for each person. You may need to look into restrictions on certain medications in foreign countries. (Or you may need to investigate how to fill a prescription in your chosen destination.)

Whatever the needs are for your travel party, be sure to discuss them with your Vacation Experience Architect. We can help you with research and brainstorming possible scenarios.

In the next, and final, installment, I’ll explain why flexibility is key. Then we’ll wrap up with information about protecting your vacation investment.

As the adoptive mom of three children living with special needs (all cognitive challenges), I truly have a passion for helping other families build vacations that are appropriate for every member of the family. If I can help you create some cherished lifelong memories, please reach out. You can find me at either annette@wishesfamilytravel.com or 734-262-5307. I would be honored to help!